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Presented by the American Brain Foundation in partnership with the ºÃÉ«ÏÈÉú and supported by the philanthropy of the Potamkin Family.

About

This award recognizes major contributions to the understanding of the causes, prevention, treatment, and cure for Pick's, Alzheimer's, and related diseases.

Timeline

• Applications open: August 5, 2025
• Applications close: October 21, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CT

Presentation

Recipient is expected to present a 20-minute lecture during a scientific session at the 2026 AAN Annual Meeting.

Benefits

• Medallion and $100,000 prize
• Complimentary registration for the 2026 Annual Meeting

Eligibility

Must be in any of the following biological disciplines: neurology, neuropathology, biochemistry, molecular biology, molecular genetics, chemistry, pharmacology, immunology, physiology, or cell biology. Applicants do not need to be an AAN member to apply. Industry employees are not eligible to apply.

Application process

Applicants should submit one complete set of the following materials:

1. Completed application form
2. Current curriculum vitae (CV)
3. Letter from the applicant citing scientific accomplishments in detail
4. Two recommendation letters
5. Up to six selected reprints

Nominations 

This award accepts both self-applicants and nominations. Nominators should complete the application form and select the option "I wish to nominate someone". The nominee will receive an email with a link to complete the award application and upload their application materials. Nominators do not need to provide application materials for the nominee.

Judging criteria 

All applications received by the deadline date will be judged based on the following criteria: 

• CV: Judges will consider scientific citizenship, track record (number of papers, first authorships, journal impact, etc.), and career stage.
• Summary letter: Letter should demonstrate the following qualities: innovative, clearly described, impact, consistent with skill set, appropriate statistical methodology, evidence of ethical considerations, and potential to fill a gap.
• Letters of support: Letters should display the following: strength of professional potential, outline ownership of project, outline aspects that define a researcher, and outline career trajectory related to this award.
• Overall impact on the field: Judges will consider scientific integrity, academic excellence, legacy of mentorship, outstanding professionalism, and inspiration for future generations.

Questions?

For more information or questions, please contact Katie Anderson, Scientific ºÃÉ«ÏÈÉú Program Manager, at science@aan.com.